Writing Screenplay – Writing a Saleable Screenplay

Writing screenplay pieces is not something that everyone is capable of. There are many different ways to go about writing a screenplay, but you need to know the basics in order to become successful. Furthermore, it isn’t just about writing a script or learning how to screenwrite so that you can produce a finished product. The goal in this is to ensure that you learn how to write a screenplay that will SELL. It doesn’t matter if your script is the most compelling, grammatically correct and best formatted if you don’t write it to sell.

You have to become a bit of a salesperson when it comes to writing screenplaypieces. You will need to make sure that your script captivates buyers and catches people’s interest so that they want to know more. You can research writing hints and tips to help in the process, but not everything that you find will be useful. You really need to focus on structure development, character development, plot, and developing the subtext of the storyline. When you create these elements properly, you will have no trouble drawing in potential buyers and directors who will want to make your movie or TV show happen.

Writing screenplay pieces is a different process for every person. However, your goal will always be the same: write what sells. It might seem difficult to write about a topic if you aren’t familiar with it, so stay away from uncharted waters. Write what you know, and make it good. Make sure that your writing captivates the audience and cannot be turned away. Of course, you can’t get this opinion from yourself, so you should find an objective audience who can tell you whether you’re on the right path. When you are writing screenplay pieces, you will need to find a script editor and formatting specialist to help make sure that your piece is perfect before you even think about showing it to potential buyers.

Selling a screenplay is a lot of work, but not as much as writing one. Fortunately, if you take writing screenplay pieces seriously, you should have no trouble coming up with a saleable product that will basically sell itself. Read books about screenwriting and the film industry so that you understand what you’re getting into. These resources are new and have only been around for a decade or two, but they can be very helpful in your quest for screenwriting perfection.

About MWP:

Michael Wiese Productions is the world’s leading publisher of filmmaking books and screenwriting books, visit http://www.mwp.com for more cutting edge tips and techniques on writing screenplays, indie movie making tips, writing screenplays and film screen writing. While your there be sure to join our MWP community newsletter.

I totally agree with this one. What is the point of writing a screenplay if you can’t sell it. It is important that you receive something in return for the time and effort you have consumed. Learning the basics is a must to be able to make your screenplay marketable.

Great article! I can’t but agree that you have to work really hard in order to write a good screenplay. But selling your work is a much tougher task. You have to read many books on screenplays selling and marketing in order to know the industry inside out.

Thank you for the article! It’s so hard to sell a screenplay nowadays so it usually takes a lot of effort to pitch your script to a filmmaking industry professional. You have to read a lot of books on screenwriting and marketing a screenplay before you understand how the indutsry works.

Thank you for the article! It’s so hard to sell a screenplay nowadays so it usually takes a lot of effort to pitch your script to a filmmaking industry professional. You have to read a lot of books on screenwriting and marketing a screenplay before you understand how the industry works.

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“I've known and worked with Michael for over 25 years, both at Vestron Video and on independent projects as well. Michael's love for his craft has allowed him to excel in everything he does. Whether it is making movies or writing books, Michael's extraordinary creativity and desire to teach emerges. It has always be a pleasure professionally and personally to work with him.”

"The first step in the difficult journey of filmmaking and screenwriting is knowledge of the craft and industry. The books from Michael Wiese Productions will start you in the right direction and serve as reliable reference points on your path to success."Shelly Mellott, Script Magazine

“Michael Wiese is a fabulous publisher. In 2003 he published my book, “First Time Director – How to Make Your Breakthrough Movie.” He was everything I would hope for in a publisher. Writing a book is a daunting task and Michael gave me much needed support every step of the way. He encouraged me and gave direction to my thinking, whenever it was needed. He told me what to cut out and what to compress. He helped me shape my ideas into a product that he could sell. When the book was done, he did a brilliant job of putting it out and promoting it. He provided me with a proof-reader who was a joy to work with, and who successfully eliminated every typo, misspelling and grammatical error from the manuscript. The cover art and design of the text and illustrations was classy and eye-pleasing. And Michael and his very savvy partner, Ken Lee, knew just how to market the book to its target audience. In addition, Michael has been unfailingly honest and fair in all of our business dealings. I have recommended him as a publisher to all of my colleagues in academia and the film industry who want to publish a how-to book on filmmaking. One, David Worth, has recently published a book through Michael Wiese Productions, and another, Ross Brown, has a contract with Michael and is currently completing his manuscript. They both report to me that my glowing assessment of Michael as a publisher is 100% accurate and thank me repeatedly for referring them to him.” January 18, 2009

“I first met Michael when he was at Vestron Video and I was Editorial Director/Publisher at Videography magazine....some 30 years ago. Over the years we have both travelled many career paths, but Michael continues to amaze and inspire me in his chosen roles as successful book publisher, filmmaker and entrepreneur. What began has a professional relationship grew into a friendship that remains to this day. I won't list his credentials. You can find those elsewhere. What I will gladly attest to is his character, creativity, and loyalty. In short, a good man.”

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“Michael Wiese has been dedicated to furthering the art and science of film making for over four decades. He continues to see the unique side of the story and to tell it extremely well. In addition to making his art, he has mentored and encouraged dozens, if not hundreds, of other film and video artists. If you have a chance to be involved in a project or to consult with Michael, and you don't grasp that opportunity--then you will have missed a valuable connection. Get to know Michael Wiese.’

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